Damn beavers!

When there’s a problem with flooding, the first to get the blame are the beavers. But they’re not the problem.

The cause of flooding in the upper region of the salmon river in Aldergrove and on the Fort Langley flats has more to do with human activities such as development, clear cutting and land filling.

Some people are concerned that beaver activity prevents salmon from reaching spawning grounds, but this is not true either. Beavers and coho are co-adapted.

However, there’s no doubt that beavers are thriving in our township. That’s because there are no wolves, wolverines, lynx or cougars to control the populations. The coniferous forests that used to dominate the landscape have been replaced by deciduous trees, much more to the liking of beavers.

Trying to remove or relocate beavers is difficult. Destroying dams can actually kill fish and other animals by draining upstream ponds and destroying habitat. The change in water flow can also affect downstream landowners.

Coexistence is likely the best option.

To protect the base of trees from gnawing beavers, wrap the trees in wire mesh. Check them annually to make sure the mesh is not becoming embedded in the bark.

If you still believe that removing a beaver dam is absolutely necessary, contact the Township of Langley at 604-534-3211.